Joel Mafauad Overcomes Early Knockdown to Retain WBA Fedelatin Welterweight Title Against Elías Hidalgo – World Boxing Association

Argentine standout Joel Mafauad overcame an early scare to successfully defend his WBA Cono Sur Welterweight title, stopping Venezuela’s Elías Hidalgo via 10th-round technical knockout in the main event at Club Prado Español in Villa Nueva, Córdoba.

The Mendoza native was forced to battle back after being dropped in the opening round, but gradually took control before finishing the fight in dramatic fashion during the closing moments of a hard-fought contest.

Nicknamed “El Tren,” Mafauad showcased both mental toughness and superb conditioning after surviving the early knockdown. Beginning in the second round, he found his rhythm by controlling range and punishing Hidalgo with crushing body hooks and sustained combinations to the midsection that steadily drained the Venezuelan challenger. The referee finally halted the action at the 2:48 mark of the 10th and final round.

Hidalgo displayed tremendous courage and dangerous punching power throughout the bout. The Venezuelan stunned the defending champion in the opening frame with a perfectly timed right hook during an exchange, creating the night’s biggest surprise. Although he remained composed and continued trading shots in close quarters, the relentless pressure applied by Mafauad gradually wore him down as the fight entered the championship rounds.

The victory further solidifies Mafauad’s standing among the top contenders in the 147-pound division while strengthening his position within the WBA’s continental rankings. The bout also highlighted the competitiveness of the organization’s regional championships, as the Argentine continues building momentum toward bigger opportunities on the international stage.